Hughes 31 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Hughes Boat Works, a prominent Canadian fiberglass sailboat manufacturer, the Hughes 31 represents a significant chapter in the company's eventful history. Hughes Boat Works had a reputation for collaborating with top naval architects, and the Sparkman & Stephens design for the Northstar 1000 (S&S #2098-C6) provided a strong foundation. When Howard Hughes repurchased Northstar Yachts in 1977 and reverted the name to Hughes Boatworks Inc., he revitalized many existing designs, restyling the Northstar 1000 into the Hughes 31 for a new era of production starting in 1979. This move underscored the company's commitment to improving and adapting popular offerings.

History and Design

The story of the Hughes 31 begins in the late 1960s and early 1970s with the Northstar Yachts brand, which was a period of significant expansion for Hughes Boat Works after its acquisition by US Steel in 1969. During this time, Northstar commissioned a series of performance cruisers from Sparkman & Stephens, a firm renowned for its elegant and performant yacht designs. The Northstar 1000, from which the Hughes 31 was derived, was part of this collaboration and was designed as an IOR Half Ton class racer-cruiser.

When Howard Hughes regained control of the company in 1977, he embarked on a strategy of re-introducing and refining popular models. The Northstar 1000 was "stretched and widened" and restyled to create the Hughes 31, enhancing its interior volume for cruising. This restyling aimed to adapt the proven Sparkman & Stephens hull to the evolving demands of the cruising market, offering more creature comforts without sacrificing the inherent sailing qualities. The boat was offered in kit form as well as fully finished, a common practice for Hughes Boat Works, making sailing more accessible to a broader market. Production of the Hughes 31 commenced in 1979. While the exact end year of production is not explicitly stated in all records, it continued to be built during the Hughes-Columbia era in the early 1980s until Hughes Boat Works faced receivership in 1980.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hughes 31, with its Sparkman & Stephens pedigree, delivers a sailing experience characterized by a blend of performance and stability, well-suited for a cruising sailboat of its size. Her design features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration for good maneuverability while maintaining some directional stability.

Interpreting its key performance ratios reveals much about its character:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp) of 21.8: This relatively high ratio suggests that the Hughes 31 is well-powered and capable of performing admirably in lighter air conditions. She is likely responsive to wind shifts and can maintain good boat speed even when the breeze is moderate.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) of 0.368 (36.8%): A solid ballast ratio indicates good initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling. While not an ultra-stiff offshore racer, this ratio suggests a comfortable and predictable motion in a seaway, suitable for cruising.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of 293.8: This ratio places the Hughes 31 firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy displacement cruiser. Boats in this range typically offer a comfortable ride in choppy conditions, have good momentum, and are less prone to being tossed around than lighter boats. While not a performance lightweight, her moderate-heavy displacement contributes to her reputation as a solid and stable vessel.

Overall, the Hughes 31 is described by owners as a solid boat that can handle difficult sailing conditions. The masthead sloop rig provides a generous sail plan for efficient performance.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in all specifications, the Hughes 31, being derived from a design adapted for increased cruising volume, offers a practical and comfortable layout typical of cruisers from its era. Reviewers and owners often note the interior's emphasis on functionality for living aboard or extended trips.

The typical interior arrangement for a Hughes 31 generally includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A marine head is usually located to port or starboard, often with a hanging locker opposite. The main salon features settees on both sides, which can often convert to additional berths, accompanied by a centerline or fold-down table. A compact but functional galley is typically situated aft, usually to port, equipped with a sink, stove, and often an icebox or refrigeration. To starboard, there might be a quarter berth or a navigation station. The finish quality generally features wood trim alongside fiberglass, reflecting the robust construction ethos of Hughes Boat Works. Storage is typically adequate for a boat of this size, with lockers and shelves integrated throughout the cabin. Ventilation is usually provided by deck hatches and opening ports, contributing to comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hughes 31 often praise its robust construction and seaworthiness, frequently noting its ability to handle challenging conditions. Many appreciate the solid fiberglass hull and deck, which contribute to a sense of security on the water. The boat's Sparkman & Stephens design heritage is also a point of pride, with owners valuing the well-balanced sailing characteristics and predictable handling.

Common points of discussion among owners sometimes revolve around the age of the vessels, as original components may require maintenance or replacement. For instance, early models reportedly had issues with the neoprene gasket between the engine and drive unit deteriorating prematurely. As with many older fiberglass boats, occasional re-bedding of deck fittings might be a recurring maintenance task. However, the overall sentiment among the community is that the Hughes 31 is a capable and reliable cruiser that offers good value for its size and classic design. Owners frequently form online communities to share knowledge and experiences, underscoring the enduring appeal and legacy of this Canadian-built sailboat.